Since I'm an aspiring minimalist (it's a struggle), I've been trying to implement the paper free lifestyle described in this Lifehacker article. I've been scanning in my old paperwork and shredding it and saving everything to my tiny USB key. I've been a little paranoid about what would happen if I lost it or it got wet, but I do back it up to two separate harddrives just in case. This particular one is 8 GB (which would be enough to hold a lifetime of data) and it's shock and water resistant.

This little device looks slightly insane, but perhaps that's appropriate considering the amount of other devices and peripherals we have to attach to our computers/ipods/bodies/lives.

Famed designer Ora-Ito designed this hub to work with Mac or PC. Its globe shape, glossy white polycarbonate finish, and flexible cables give it a distinctive, out-of-this-world look. This new model simplifies the formula, ditching the firewire ports, fan and light to provide you with seven USB ports. Each port is linked to a colorful LED that illuminates through the casing when plugged in. The Hub is also great for charging your iPod, camera, cell phone and other devices that charge from a USB port. Bundled with 8 flexible cables, an external power supply, a USB extension cable, and a flower petals kit, the LaCie USB 2.0 Hub comes fully equipped for making all of your connections.

[posted by kris]

Fantasize about digitizing your life?

Turn all those dusty LPs into digital gold with this USB-ready turntable, or get started on that career as a DJ. Both MAC and PC compatible, it's easy as pie with a plug-and-play guarantee and easy-to-use software that'll have your hot tracks jockeying on the decks and on your MP3 player. The belt-drive turntable has two convenient start-stop buttons for multiple setup options, as well as anti-skating, 33 1/3 and 45 speeds (plus a 45 adapter), RCA and USB lines out, a 1/8" stereo input, a built-in pre-amplifier, a cartridge and stylus, and rubber feet that won't slip. The turntable also comes with all the software and cords you'll need to get set up in a jiffy.

[posted by kris]

I have Version II of this Naoto Fukasawa humidifier and I love it.

"The goal of the Japanese design house Plusminuszero is to turn everyday objects into art... and, as anyone who lives in a dry climate knows, humidifiers aren't exactly the most aesthetic object in your house. That's all about to change with the Humidifier Version III. With its compact frame and beautifully smooth surfaces, it not only works perfectly to control the climate but actually looks great while doing its job."

[posted by kris]

We've probably all seen this before as a concept piece, but they're now in production and taking pre-orders for shipment in April.

The Phonofone amplifies the sound that comes out of your earbuds and is made entirely from ceramic. Not only does it function entirely without electricity (other than the Ipod, ofcourse), but it's quite a stunning sculptural piece as well.

[posted by kris]

I was actually looking for something like this recently because I read before I go to bed and then I'm too tired to turn off the light--you know the story--and when I finally get up to turn the light out, it wakes me up a little then I can't go to bed.

I think we've all seen this before, but I had sort of forgotten about it because maybe it was only a concept piece before? I can't recall. But in any case, it's available now.

"Another "instant" classic from Tobias Wong. Melding wit with functionality, this wireless light switch can control any light fixture (or any electrical device) within 100 feet. Attach the remote component to the fixture of your choice and simply "flip the switch"."

Open edition in Chrome and a Limited Edition of 500 in 14k Gold.

Or, as one of our faithful readers wrote in, you can get one of these as an alternative.

[posted by kris]

Sustainably grown wooden radio which is compatible with your ipod.

"Singgih Kartono chooses wood for his radios not just based on aesthetics but on his appreciation of wood's simplicity and organic vitality. The Magno radio combines the most current mp3 player compatible electronics with sustainably grown woods."

[posted by kris]

In most cases, I'd rather have 1 item that performs two functions instead of 2 that each only perform one. But for some reason, listening to iTunes on my computer doesn't really work for me while I'm using my computer. It slows down my computer a little and the speakers leave a little to be desired. I've been wanting a external way to listen to my iTunes library and I think this may just be it.

"The iYiYi system connects and charges all dockable iPods. Its precise digital tuner includes five FM and five AM station preset buttons, a 'seek' function, and built-in AM and FM antennas. The backlit display provides information on station tuning, the time, and the 20-minute sleep timer indicator. It all adds up to the ultimate home audio system for anyone looking for iPod and radio control in one unit. Available in black and white. Dimensions: 7.36"H x 11.88" W x 8.66" D. Weight: 6.33 lbs"

[posted by kris]

Look! It's the repurposing of a the candleholder shape into a flashlight. This is pretty cool.

"This flashlight can be perfectly concealed on your bookcase or mantle top. It uses bright LED bulbs and is powered by 3 AA batteries (not included)."

[posted by kris]

Ever since Katie posted this sink over in our 'Remodel' section, I've been having fantasies about the perfect bathroom. I think this would fit in nicely.

[posted by kris]